DECOR
I’m making plans to spruce up my bedroom a bit and one of the main things I want to target is the area above my bed head. I don’t have a headboard and have been deliberating (for yyyears really…sigh overthinker much?) whether I should DIY a headboard or use large artwork or other decorative options instead as a headboard alternative.
So today, I’m rounding up some no headboard ideas for your bedroom that you can easily implement.
I’m crushing on quite a few of these ideas.
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13 Ideas for Styling a Bed with No Headboard
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1. Create a Feature Wall with Wallpaper or a Wall Mural
These examples show how a full/sectioned accent wall using wallpaper, stencils or contact paper can easily replace the need for a headboard.
Wallpaper is a great way to immediately change the look and feel of your space, even if you change little else. This floral wall mural from Photowall Sweden would make the bedroom a calming, elegant oasis.
If you’re looking for some other renter-friendly wallpaper options, check out these peel and stick wallpapers on Amazon.
I also love this floral wallpaper as well as this black and white one as a backdrop for the bed.
2. Use a Giant Macrame Wall Hanging
These are still trending and this one makes a simple statement.
3. Hang Tapestry behind the bed
An alternative of the wall mural is to hang a large piece of tapestry behind the bed. This idea also allows you to switch up your decor more easily.
I really like this look from Urban Outfitters.
The one above is no longer available but you can also shop for tapestries here.
4. Paint an Accent Wall in One Colour
This is not a new idea but, using just paint, you can make a bold statement like this black accent wall. I like how the stark contrast looks so if you’re not afraid of high contrast looks (or a wall of black paint), this could be a great option.
5. Create a Colour-blocked Accent Wall
Take things up a notch by using two colours for a colour-blocked accent wall. This one plays off of the asymmetry in the room and is a great option if your bed isn’t centered on the wall.
6. Frame the Bedhead with a Painted Circle
A can of paint and some simple materials are all that’s needed to recreate this look. I really love the idea of a painted circle behind the bed. (Find an )
Although this other example has a headboard, you can easily picture the room without it as the pink circle can stand on its own.
7. Make a Woven Headboard (using placemats and a table runner)
Ohhh this is a FAB idea!! Use placemats and a table runner to recreate this boho-chic look in no time at all. Check out the tutorial via the link below the pic.
8. Use Curtains and Fairy lights for a dreamy backdrop
I love the dreamy effect this look creates using some curtain fairy lights and sheer fabric. Check out the link below photo for Mr. Kate’s full tutorial.
9. Use a Large Piece of Artwork
Artwork and wall décor centered above the bed head are popular options for headboard alternatives. One large framed piece of art can be used to make a statement.
Btw, if you’re looking for affordable artwork but not into DIYing, Society 6 has a huge collection of art prints for under $25.
In this example from Mr. Kate, the artwork is placed above the side of the bed rather than the head. I loved the entire room makeover actually since has the popular “hygge” vibe.
10. Use a couple of large framed prints
This idea works really well for word and typography prints.
11. Create an entire gallery wall above the bedhead
Dig out some prints buried in your phone or laptop or DIY some simple art and create a gorgeous gallery wall like this.
12. Place a shelf (or two) above the bed
In a small space, this is also a great storage hack since the shelf can be used to display and store personal items. Add some hanging plants for a chic boho vibe.
I’m not fully comfortable with the idea of a shelf above my head (or the picture frames), particularly since I live in an earthquake-prone country, but I do like how they look.
13. Nothing behind the bed
This final example shows that depending on how you decorate the rest of the room, having nothing at the head of your bed actually works.
In this photo, the artwork placed above the side table rather than above the centre of the bed provides enough visual interest in the space. The minimalistic look of the room is also amplified.
Here’s another angle of the room.
I hope this helped to answer your question: What can I use if I don’t have a headboard??
Looking for even more bedroom ideas? Check out my Bedroom Pinterest board for some inspiration.
Now tell me, what’s your take on the no headboard vs headboard scenario? Which of these no headboard ideas is your favourite look?
Feel free to share on Pinterest!
